Albany, NY – In celebration of the extraordinary contributions of the Dominican community to the State of New York, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-119) joined her colleagues in the New and Senate Dominican Delegation today for Dominicans in Albany, an annual event held at the New York State Capitol. Today’s gathering brought together legislators, advocates, business leaders, and community members from across the state and the Mohawk Valley in a spirit of unity, recognition, and shared purpose.

“Our State’s proud Dominican community has made indelible marks upon our neighborhoods, our businesses, our schools, and our government. Today is an opportunity to recognize the dedication and vision of all those with Dominican heritage whose hard work has broken down barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and opened the doors of success to future generations. It is an honor to stand alongside my colleagues and a privilege to have been joined today by so many outstanding community and business leaders from the Mohawk Valley in honoring their legacy and celebrating their community contributions.”

This year’s celebration, which began with a welcoming at the New York State Capitol, featured a series of workshops bringing together voices from across government, nonprofits, and businesses to share knowledge and strengthen the bonds that unite the Dominican community, in addition to a formal recognition ceremony on the floor of the Assembly Chamber and guided tours of the Capitol before concluding with an awards and recognition reception. Today’s events were presented by the Members of the New York State Assembly and Senate Dominican Delegation: Assemblymembers Karines Reyes (D-87); Amanda Septimo (D-84); Yudelka Tapia (D-86); Manny De Los Santos (D-72); George Alvarez (D-78); and Senator Luis Sepulveda (D-32).

Among the distinguished guests recognized today, Assemblywoman Buttenschon was proud to welcome eleven individuals from the Mohawk Valley whose hard work, dedication, and service reflect the very best of our communities. Recognized today for their outstanding cultural and economic contributions to the communities of the 119th District: Cristiana Cabral of Christiana’s Taxes; Julio and Yomari Brito of A & J Auto Services; Angela Ramirez of Friends Bakery by K & A; Angelyce Rojas of Lashes by Angelyce; Sandra Hilaria Soto of El Barajo Restaurant; Genodis Campusano of Morena’s Hair Salon; Properties Investor Gabriel Felix; and Sonia Marte.

Each of these individuals have demonstrated their dedication to strengthening our neighborhoods, uplifting residents through their leadership, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirits.

Formally recognized for his entrepreneurial and community commitments, his mentorship of young people in the community, and the values of hard work and integrity he has modeled for young adults throughout his career, Oscar Martinez, owner of Excellent Tape in the City of Utica for over a decade, was honored today with the presentation of a New York State Assembly Proclamation from Assemblywoman Buttenschon and the StateDominican Delegation in formal recognition of his years of extraordinary leadership, mentorship, and contributions to the community.

For more than a decade, Oscar Martinez has demonstrated that true leadership extends far beyond business success. As the Owner of Excellent Tape, he has committed himself to using his business as a safe place where young adults can gain meaningful work experience, develop practical skills, and learn the value of discipline, responsibility, and respect. By sharing his knowledge of the trades and emphasizing the importance of hard work and integrity, Oscar has encouraged countless young adults to pursue their goals with confidence, determination, and an understanding that success is built through perseverance, integrity, and a strong work ethic. His willingness to invest in others and lead by example has made a lasting impact on the Mohawk Valley community and has helped inspire the next generation to strive for excellence in both their personal and professional lives.

“I was honored to recognize members of the Mohawk Valley Latino Association and many Dominican residents and business owners in Albany today, with special recognition to Oscar Martinez, owner of Excellent Tape. Not only is he a business owner that provides a significant service to our community but mentors our youth on a vital trade and also identifies the importance of maintaining respect and dignity in and out of the workplace. Oscar was accompanied by his family today who he clearly defines as the center of his excellence.”

Dominicans in Albany serves as a powerful reminder that the contributions of the Dominican community to New York State are not only a source of pride, but are an integral part of what makes this state great. Today's celebration reflects the strength, resilience, and vision of a community that continues to shape the bright future of our great state.